This wilderness contains part of one of western Arizona's largest desert mountain ranges. The 5,691-foot- high Harquahala Peak, the highest point in southwest Arizona, provides a breathtaking panorama of surrounding desert and distant mountain ranges. Different from many Sonoran Desert mountain ranges, the Harquahalas contain a screened interior canyon system. The distinctive ecosystems provide exceptional natural diversity, including a relict "island" of interior chaparral, desert grasslands and rare cactus populations. The area also supports habitat for desert bighorn sheep, mountain lions, desert tortoise, and mule deer populations. The area also supports venomous snakes and the gila monster.

High-clearance and four-wheel-drive vehicles are needed to travel to the boundary of the wilderness. Paved State Route 60 provides access to jeep trails extending to the wilderness area's north boundary. The paved Eagle Eye Road provides access to numerous jeep trails along the area's southern side. Harquahala Peak can be reached by the Harquahala Back Country Byway; a 10.5 mile steep, winding, and narrow road for 4-wheel drive, high-clearance vehicles.

Nonfederal Lands

Some lands around and within the wilderness are not federally administered. Please respect the property rights of the owners and do not cross or use these lands without their permission.